Our Mission

The Friends of the Detroit River envisions an ever improving quality of life for people, plants and animals in southeast Michigan and southwest Ontario. We will do that through the development of a balance of grass roots advocacy and staffed programs, forming an environmental group that watches and protects the Detroit River. Our efforts will include the creation of a highly visible resource center focusing on Detroit River issues, programs, research, policies and partnerships.

The Detroit Riverkeeper Program

The heart of what the Friends of the Detroit River (FDR) is all about is the Detroit Riverkeeper Program. The Detroit Riverkeeper Program was established in the fall of 2002, when FDR's program was accepted as a member of the international organization known as the Waterkeeper Alliance. The celebration of the establishment of the Riverkeeper Program that fall was attended by Robert Kennedy, Jr., as a representative of the Alliance. The Friends of the Detroit River is a citizens' advocacy group, and the Riverkeeper Program serves as our most visible program to protect the interests of the river and the citizens of the surrounding community. There is a paid staff member, the Detroit Riverkeeper, who patrols the river in our Riverkeeper boat, and serves as the "eyes and ears" of the citizens of the river community. The Riverkeeper also works closely with various state and federal agencies, as well as local watershed groups, non-profit organizations, elected officials, and citizens to ensure that our interests in the preservation and improvement of the Detroit River are protected. READ MORE

The Detroit Riverkeeper

Recreation Passport

The $11 Recreation Passport replaces the state park sticker to get you into all state parks, recreation areas and boat launches. To get your Recreation Passport, just check "YES" on your license plate renewal form. Your $11 also helps preserve forest campgrounds and trails, historic and cultural sites in state parks, and parks in your own community. Get your Recreation Passport and tell your friends and family to do the same. It's only $11--a good deal for you means a GREAT deal to future generations. For more on this Michigan DNR program, CLICK HERE.

Get Involved

Become a Member

Stay up to date with the latest news and events in, on, and around the Detroit River.... LEARN MORE

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Make a Donation

Big or small, every bit helps, and goes a long way in preserving the quality of our great resource, the Detroit River. Your donations are 100% tax deductable and are used to support the work we do to protect and defend the river, which includes citizen advocacy, public education, and habitat protection and restoration.

Thanks in advance for your support!

Calendar - What's Coming Up

Help Wanted!

OFFICE ADMINISTRATIVE POSITION

The Friends of the Detroit River (FDR) is looking to fill a part time office administrative position for its office in Taylor, MI.This position requires good communication, administrative and clerical skills. As the first point of contact for members, media, and the public, this position demands initiative and tact. Position starts at 10-15 hours a week.View Full Details